Kantara Chapter 1: Rishab Shetty Unveils Rukmini Vasanth As Kanakavathi in New Poster

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India] August 8: The makers of Kantara Chapter 1 have introduced Rukmini Vasanth as the newest addition to the much-awaited prequel. Director-actor Rishab Shetty revealed her character, Kanakavathi, through a striking first-look poster on Friday. The film, rooted in the cultural traditions and folklore of coastal Karnataka, will release in cinemas worldwide on October 2.

In the poster, Rukmini is seen in a green and red saree, paired with heavy traditional jewellery. Standing inside a palace, she radiates elegance with a confident smile. Sharing the poster on X (formerly Twitter), Rishab Shetty wrote,

“Introducing @rukminitweets as ‘Kanakavathi’ from the world of #KantaraChapter1. In Cinemas #KantaraChapter1onOct2.”

The movie has faced many issues in shooting; makers have faced so many obstacles. Many deaths of the technicians and crew happened during the filming. Last month, production house Hombale Films announced that filming had been completed. In their statement, they called the journey “divine” and said the story is “deeply rooted in our culture,” brought to life with “unwavering dedication, relentless hard work, and incredible team spirit.” 

Rishab Shetty returns to direct and star in Kantara Chapter 1 after the massive success of Kantara in 2022. The original film, made on a budget of around ₹16 crore, became a global hit with earnings exceeding ₹400 crore. It earned Shetty the National Award for Best Actor and was praised for its blend of myth, folklore, and action.

Rukmini made her debut with Birbal Trilogy and Upstarts in 2019. She later appeared in Sapta Saagaradaache Ello – Side A and Side B, Bhairathi Ranagal, and Bhagheera. She was last seen in Ace opposite Vijay Sethupathi and will next feature in AR Murugadoss’s Madharaasi alongside Sivakarthikeyan, the movie is slated for grand release on 5 September 2025.